September is Prostate Cancer Awareness MonthRelease Date: August 28, 2015

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and the Sussex Warren Chronic Disease Coalition, in collaboration with the Sussex County Department of Environmental and Public Health Services, wants to help our residents learn about prostate cancer. The purpose of this annual campaign is to raise awareness of the disease and to educate the community about the prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment options for prostate cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for men of all races in the United States.

Many men do not experience any symptoms with prostate cancer, and since it is slow growing, it may go undetected for years. Some of the common symptoms are blood in the urine, frequent urination (especially at night), weak or interrupted urine flow, pain or a burning feeling while urinating, and constant pain in the lower back, pelvis, or upper thighs. If someone is having any of these symptoms, they should contact their health care provider immediately.

The main risk factor for prostate cancer is age, as the chance of getting prostate cancer increases with age. Other risk factors include family history, especially if a man has a father or brother with prostate cancer. The CDC explains that prostate cancer is more common in some racial and ethnic groups than in others, as well. Although it is not yet known how to fully prevent prostate cancer, healthy lifestyle choices can help. So, not using tobacco products, eating a healthy diet, being physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer and other chronic diseases.